CSU Implements Exemption From Nonresident Tuition
For Long-Term Immigrant Students

The California State University system has begun implementation of in-state tuition for certain
nonresident students in accordance with AB540. Students who qualify under the new law are
authorized to pay in-state tuition for academic semesters or quarters starting after Jan. 1, 2002.

"We are pleased to expand access and educational opportunities at the CSU to all California
students," said CSU Chancellor Charles B. Reed. "Racially and ethnic inclusive campuses better
prepare students for the diverse workplace they will find in the future."

Students need to meet particular requirements to pay in-state tuition, which is significantly lower
than out-of-state tuition. The requirements are: (1) have attended high school in California for at
least 3 full years; (2) have graduated from a California high school or received the equivalent;
and (3) be enrolled as a new or continuing student at a CSU campus. If students are without
lawful immigration status, they must also file an affidavit with a CSU campus stating that they
have filed an application with the INS to legalize their immigration status or that they will do so
as soon as they are eligible.

The affidavit forms are available at the 23 CSU campuses. Students applying for the exemption
should request in person, at the campus office of admissions, the "Affidavit For Exemption From
Nonresident Tuition" form, complete the document, and show proof of attendance and
graduation from a California high school. Once these three requirements are met, students are
entitled to pay in-state tuition.

The difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition is significant. The resident tuition for an
undergraduate student taking 6.1 or more units at the CSU is $1,428 per academic year. Non-
resident tuition is $7,380 extra per academic year. Students also pay campus-based fees
averaging $448. Therefore, the average full-time undergraduate non-resident tuition is $9,256.

Students who qualify for in-state tuition under AB540 will not qualify for financial aid requiring
legal permanent residence or U.S. citizenship. Additionally, qualifying for in-state tuition under
AB540 does not establish California residence for undocumented alien students.

The law, signed by Governor Gray Davis in Oct. 2001, requires that all information obtained in
the implementation of AB540 be kept confidential. CSU campuses have been directed to keep
the affidavits and all other information related to this law a confidential portion of the student's
permanent records.

For information about admission to the CSU and to obtain online applications, please go to
www.calstate.edu and look under "Students."